My first impression of Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight
For years, I’ve preached the gospel of iron sights on shotguns, believing they built character and skill. That changed when I started missing more birds than I was bagging, and frankly, my aging eyes needed some help. The Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight promised to remedy that, offering faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, specifically tailored for my trusty Super Black Eagle II.
My biggest problem was consistent shotgun mounting under pressure. I needed a solution that compensated for slight variations in my cheek weld, something iron sights simply couldn’t provide. I had considered reflex sights, but the Burris SpeedBead system, integrating directly with the rib of my Benelli, seemed like a cleaner, more streamlined solution.
Unboxing the Burris SpeedBead, I was immediately impressed by its compact design and the matte black finish. It felt solid, well-built, and surprisingly lightweight. Compared to some bulkier red dots I’ve used on AR platforms, this was refreshingly minimalist.
I also looked at the Trijicon RMR and Aimpoint Micro S-1, but both would have required aftermarket mounts on my Benelli. The integrated design of the Burris SpeedBead meant no adapters, less weight, and a lower profile. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – I hoped this would live up to the hype and get me back to bagging birds with confidence.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test was a late-season pheasant hunt in South Dakota. Temperatures hovered around freezing, and a biting wind made for challenging conditions. Mounting the SpeedBead was straightforward, and the included instructions were clear.
Zeroing at the range took only a few shots. The 8 MOA dot proved easy to acquire even with gloves on, and the adjustments were precise and tactile. In the field, the difference was immediate. The red dot allowed me to stay focused on the bird, not struggling to align sights.
I harvested three roosters that day, all with clean, ethical shots. There were no issues with fogging or battery performance despite the cold. This was a significant improvement over my previous hunts.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of upland hunting and several rounds of sporting clays, the Burris SpeedBead has proven remarkably durable. Despite some bumps and scrapes, the finish remains intact, and the zero has held steady. The sight has seen use in rain, snow, and dusty conditions, with no malfunctions.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a lens cloth keeps the glass clear. The CR1632 battery still has plenty of life left. Compared to my experience with some cheaper red dots, the Burris SpeedBead is in a different league. It consistently delivers reliable performance, exceeding my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight boasts impressive specs for its intended use. The sight offers a 1x magnification, meaning no added zoom, which is ideal for close-range shotgun applications. The objective lens size is 21 mm x 15 mm, providing a sufficient field of view.
Eye relief is unlimited, a crucial feature for shotguns where consistent cheek weld can be challenging. The 8 MOA red dot is large enough for quick acquisition but not so large as to obscure small targets at longer ranges. It only weighs 1.9 ounces, minimizing added weight to the shotgun.
The sight features a matte black finish for reduced glare and is powered by a CR1632 battery. These specifications translate to a sight that is lightweight, easy to use, and well-suited for fast-paced wingshooting and tactical scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris SpeedBead excels in its primary role: facilitating fast and accurate target acquisition with a shotgun. The 8 MOA dot is highly visible in various lighting conditions. The integrated mounting system ensures a secure and low-profile attachment to the Benelli Super Black Eagle II.
The sight is easy to zero and holds zero reliably, even after repeated firing. The main strength is its ability to improve shooting consistency. Its one weakness is its non-adjustable dot brightness, which could be problematic in extremely bright conditions, although I haven’t personally encountered this issue.
It definitely exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris SpeedBead scores high marks for its thoughtful design and ergonomic integration with the Benelli shotgun. The low-profile design doesn’t interfere with the shotgun’s handling or balance. The sight’s lightweight construction ensures it doesn’t add noticeable weight.
The Burris SpeedBead integrates seamlessly with the Super Black Eagle II, preserving the shotgun’s aesthetics. It requires minimal adjustment time. The single-button operation is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris SpeedBead is built to withstand the rigors of field use. The aluminum housing feels robust. It’s been exposed to rain, snow, and mud without any adverse effects.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe with a lens cloth is usually sufficient. The battery compartment is easily accessible. Based on my experience, I expect this sight to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris SpeedBead comes as a complete system designed specifically for the Benelli Super Black Eagle II. It doesn’t require any additional mounts or adapters.
There are limited customization options for the SpeedBead itself. The 8 MOA dot size and non-adjustable brightness are fixed. It’s compatible with aftermarket chokes and other shotgun accessories.
Pros and Cons of Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Significantly improves target acquisition speed and accuracy, especially for wingshooting.
- Integrated mounting system provides a secure, low-profile fit on the Benelli Super Black Eagle II.
- Durable construction withstands harsh field conditions.
- Lightweight design doesn’t negatively impact shotgun handling or balance.
- Easy to zero and maintains zero reliably.
Cons
- Non-adjustable dot brightness may be a limitation in extremely bright conditions.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight?
This red dot sight is perfect for hunters and sporting clays enthusiasts who use a Benelli Super Black Eagle II and seek faster target acquisition and improved accuracy. It is also a solid option for tactical shotgun users who need a reliable, low-profile optic.
This product may not be ideal for shooters who prefer adjustable brightness settings or those who own shotguns other than the Benelli Super Black Eagle II. A must-have accessory is a high-quality lens cloth for maintaining a clear sight picture.
Conclusion on Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight
The Burris SpeedBead Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shotgun 1x 21x15mm 8 MOA Red Dot Sight has transformed my shotgun shooting experience. It delivers on its promise of faster target acquisition and improved accuracy in a durable, lightweight package. The price is justified by the quality of construction and the significant performance benefits.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Burris SpeedBead to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their Benelli Super Black Eagle II. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference for yourself!